Things to do in Cotopaxi Province

Cotopaxi and Quilotoa are two of Ecuador's most famous and stunning natural attractions, both located in the Andes Mountains. They offer visitors unique experiences and breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes. Here's a comparison of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa: Cotopaxi: Volcano: Cotopaxi is an active stratovolcano and one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. It reaches an elevation of 5,897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level. National Park: Cotopaxi is part of the Cotopaxi National Park, which covers a vast area surrounding the volcano. The park is a protected area known for its diverse ecosystems and outdoor activities. Outdoor Activities: Cotopaxi National Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking, mountain climbing, horseback riding, and birdwatching. Climbing to the summit of Cotopaxi is a popular challenge for experienced mountaineers. Scenery: The landscape around Cotopaxi is characterized by highland grasslands, paramo ecosystems, and glaciers. The volcano's iconic snow-capped peak is a symbol of Ecuador's natural beauty. Access: Cotopaxi is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of Quito, making it relatively accessible from the capital city. Quilotoa: Lake and Caldera: Quilotoa is a water-filled caldera formed by the collapse of a volcano. The Quilotoa Crater Lake is a stunning emerald green color, attracting visitors from all over the world. Location: Quilotoa is located in the Cotopaxi Province, around 200 kilometers (125 miles) south of Quito. It is part of the Quilotoa Loop, a popular trekking route through the Andean highlands. Hiking and Trekking: The Quilotoa Loop offers trekkers a chance to explore rural Andean villages and experience the local culture. Hiking down to the Quilotoa Lake and back up is a challenging but rewarding experience. Scenery: Quilotoa's surroundings are characterized by rugged landscapes, traditional villages, and the striking emerald-colored lake within the caldera. Cultural Experience: The Quilotoa region is home to indigenous communities, offering visitors opportunities for cultural immersion and interaction with locals. Both Cotopaxi and Quilotoa offer travelers unique experiences and stunning vistas of Ecuador's volcanic landscapes. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone interested in local culture, visiting both attractions will provide an unforgettable journey through the Andean highlands.

Visit Cotopaxi National Park in Ecuador’s Andes Mountains. The park is home to the active Cotopaxi volcano that towers 19,642 feet above sea level. When you reach the park your naturalist guide will show you the exceptional variety of flora and fauna. Hike to the Limpiopungo lagoon, located on the slopes of the volcano. Stop at the lagoon for a short rest to take in the landscapes and the spectacular views of the volcano. Continue the hike to the Jose Ribas shelter and experience the environment at almost 16,000 feet above sea level.

Our adventure starts leaving Quito from your accommodation and on the way we will observe the great amount of volcanoes located in the Andes Mountains, such as Cayambe Volcano, Antisana Volcano, Pasochoa Volcano and many more. The Panamericana will be our way to Cotopaxi National Park, and we will make a stop at the Romerillos Viewpoint to see the Corazón Volcano and the Illinizas Volcanoes, as well as to take pictures with ALPACAS. At the entry to Cotopaxi National Park, we will have the opportunity to acclimatize with the famous Coca Tea and observe the handicrafts and ponchos. We will enter the Cotopaxi National Park, where we will be able to take many pictures with the Volcano at an altitude of 4000 meters above sea level, on the way it will be possible to see the Spectacled Bear, the Condor, wild horses, deer and many native birds. We continue to the Limpiopungo Lagoon, a lagoon located in the middle of three volcanoes to observe the nature of the National Park and hike to take some excellent pictures. Then we return to the city of Quito. The Cotopaxi volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and the second highest in Ecuador, second only to Chimborazo. It is an almost perfect snow-capped cone and is, together with the Galapagos, the greatest symbol of the natural geography of the country. Due to its beauty and characteristics, the Cotopaxi volcano is one of the most visited places in continental Ecuador, and the possibility of reaching its summit represents a longed-for dream for countless mountaineers from all over the world.

Your day begins with an early pickup from your hotel or hostel in our designated Quito pickup areas. We’ll make a quick stop in Machachi where you can grab some snacks or use the restroom before heading straight to Cotopaxi National Park. Our first stop is the breathtaking Limpiopungo Lagoon, a glacial lake nestled at the base of the Cotopaxi Volcano — perfect for stunning photos! You’ll also visit the Interpretation Center, a small but informative museum where you’ll learn about the park’s unique wildlife, geology, and history. Next, gear up for an invigorating hike to the José Rivas Refuge, located at 4,864 meters above sea level. The hike takes around an hour — don’t forget to dress warmly and be ready for the altitude… and yes, you’ll want to snap a pic! After the hike, we’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Your guide will offer some great recommendations, and vegetarian options are available. (Note: lunch is not included in the tour price.)

Explore Baños, the adventure capital of Ecuador. Get to know stunning places such as Cotopaxi Volcano as well as the Quilotoa Lagoon - an unbelievable turquoise lake in the caldera of an active volcano. Once in Baños, enjoy a number of wonderful activities set against a beautiful backdrop of waterfalls and tropical greenery. This short tour makes for a great escape from Quito. Day 1: Quito - Cotopaxi - Quilotoa - Baños Get picked up from your hostel or hotel in Quito to begin the trip to Baños. You will stop along the way for a quick breakfast before arriving in Cotopaxi. Observe the stunning Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the country's most famous sights. Visit the Toachi River Canyon lookout point with some free time to enjoy the amazing landscape of Quilotoa Crater Lake. Depart for Baños and visit the famous "Swing at the End of the World" at La Casa del Árbol. Take in an amazing view of the gorgeous mountain landscapes. Enjoy a free evening to explore some of the local attractions. Feel free to visit the nearby thermal baths which gave Baños its name and go for a relaxing dip in these healing pools. Stay overnight in Baños.  Day 2: Baños - Quito Spend the morning exploring Baños at your leisure. Then, get picked up at Juan Montalvo Park to begin the day's activities. Ride a cable car over the Pastaza River and experience 360-degree views of waterfalls, mountains, and beautiful jungle landscapes. Visit the stunning Devil's Cauldron (Pailón del Diablo) Waterfall. Return to Baños for free time. Around 4:30 pm, get ready to get back to Quito, arriving around 7:30 pm for drop off at your hotel/hostel.

Drive south from Quito to the Quilotoa area and visit its famous lagoon. Along the way, you'll admire the beautiful Andean landscape and stop at the Shalala viewpoint. Next, you'll visit the community viewpoint and descend to the lagoon. Once there, you'll have free time to hike and explore the area. You'll return on a path that connects the lagoon to the community viewpoint. It's an intense walk, so if you're not in good shape, simply climb on a mule that will pack you back to the viewpoint. After a lunch break, you'll also stop at a Tigua craft workshop, famous for its colorful products, and visit the Toachi's Canon.

This is a short 1-day trip to Baños, considered the adventure capital of Ecuador, on the tour you will visit the route of the waterfalls, the Pailón del Diablo, and the Tree House, and you will have time to do extreme activities and get to know the city of Baños. Enjoy the journey from Quito to Baños along the Avenue of Volcanos If you are lucky, you will have the opportunity to observe the second-highest volcano in Ecuador, and if the weather permits we will make a stop to photograph the Cotopaxi volcano. We will arrive early in Baños and we will start the tour on the Route of the Waterfalls, you will travel in a cable car on the Pastaza River to obtain extraordinary panoramic views of waterfalls, mountains, and beautiful jungle landscapes in Baños. We will visit the impressive Pailón del Diablo waterfall (The Devil's Cauldron). We will go up to the "Swing at the End of the World" in La Casa del Arbol, from where you can see the epic mountain of the Tungurahua volcano. You will have free time to do extreme activities such as canopy, Tibetan bridge, extreme swing, and many more. Take a short walk to explore the city of Baños. Return to Quito, direct drop-off at your hotel/hostel in Quito.

Embark on a unique experience with our full day tour to Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Volcano, two of the most impressive destinations in Ecuador. This tour is the perfect opportunity to explore the majesty of nature, and live an adventure that will remain engraved in your memory. The day starts early, when a tour guide will pick you up at your hotel in Quito. As you head towards Cotopaxi National Park, you will enjoy the Andean landscape that changes with every kilometer. As you drive south along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, you will admire green valleys and picturesque villages, with the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano dominating the horizon. This imposing volcano, one of the highest in the world, is a symbol of Ecuador's natural beauty. Upon arrival at Cotopaxi National Park, you will have the opportunity to take a gentle hike along the trails surrounding the volcano. Breathe the fresh mountain air while discovering the unique flora and fauna of the region. Your tour guide will share stories about the indigenous culture and geology of the area, giving you a deeper insight into this spectacular environment. You will also be able to admire the Limpiopungo Lagoon, bird species and the impressive glacier of the volcano, weather permitting. You will then continue on to the Quilotoa crater, where you will find an impressive turquoise lake that will leave you in awe. Upon arrival, you will have time to admire the panoramic view from the lookout point, where you can capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera. The calmness of the lake and the majesty of the cliffs will invite you to reflect and enjoy the moment. If you are feeling adventurous, you can choose to descend to the bottom of the crater through a trail that takes you to the edge of the lagoon. The hike is challenging but rewarding, and you will enjoy even closer views of the lake and its surroundings. At the end of the day, you will return to Quito with a heart full of new experiences and unforgettable memories. This tour to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa not only offers you the opportunity to experience two of Ecuador's most emblematic landscapes, but also connects you with culture and nature in a unique way. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this adventure. Experience the grandeur of Cotopaxi and the beauty of Quilotoa in a full day that will leave you wanting more. Get ready for an experience that will change your life!

Escape the hassle of travelling with this convenient private transfer that takes you straight from the airport to your accommodation.The service includes a meet and greet with your professional driver, who will be waiting at the arrival lobby of the airport with a sign with your name on it. Relax in comfort and avoid the stress of finding a transfer from one of the busiest airports in South America. Your driver will check the flight information, and will wait if your flight is delayed. Your driver will be a local expert and can provide information, recommendations and point out landmarks like the Cotopaxi volcano.

Visit the spectacular Cotopaxi volcano, the second highest volcano in Ecuador. See the beautiful lagoon of Limpiopungo. Go downhill with bicycles as part of this tour, with bicycles included, or go with a car. Depart from Quito and travel on the Pan-American Highway south, crossing a part of the Andes and the town of Machachi. Pass the livestock and agriculture to the skirts of the Pasochoa and Rumiñahui to the right and to the left the Corazon hill with the wonderful ilinizas. Make a first technical stop to acclimatize, have breakfast, and take photographs. Continue to the entrance to the Cotopaxi National Park. Meet people from the around communities who will be waiting for you with handicrafts and mountain clothes. Hike the Cotopaxi volcano up to the "José Rivas refuge." Take a 30-minute break to rest and have a hot drink or soup. Hike back to the parking lot and continue by bicycle downhill, approximately 30-40 minutes. Arrive at the beautiful Limpiopungo lagoon, where you will have a few minutes to rest and take photos.